Hardware Lead

We're looking for a talented Hardware Lead to design innovative mechanical systems and components for AI-driven robots, while providing technical leadership and hands-on guidance to our technician team. In this role, you'll create detailed 3D models and technical drawings for fabrication, set the technical direction for build and assembly work, collaborate closely with engineering teams to ensure seamless integration with electrical and software systems, conduct mechanical simulations and performance testing, and source components and coordinate with external vendors, suppliers, and procurement on fabrication, quality, and lead times. This is a technical leadership role rather than a formal management role. You'll be the go to expert technicians will turn to for guidance on their daily work.

Responsibilities

Design mechanical systems and components for AI-driven robots; Create detailed 3D models and technical drawings for fabrication; Optimize designs for cost, efficiency, and manufacturability; Conduct mechanical simulations and performance testing to validate designs; Collaborate with engineering and operational teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical components with electrical and software systems; Act as the technical point of contact for the technician team; Guide technicians through prototyping, testing, and troubleshooting; Review technicians' work for quality and design intent; Set best practices and standards for build quality, tooling, and documentation on the shop floor; Mentor technicians on mechanical design principles; Source components and coordinate with external vendors, suppliers, and procurement on fabrication, quality, and lead times; May require extended assignment in the EU for onboarding and to support ongoing European operations

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computational Mechanics, Engineering Science, or a related field; 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, ideally in robotics or automation; Experience guiding or mentoring technicians or junior engineers in a hands-on, technical capacity; Experience in industrial design or special-purpose machinery; Proficiency with CAD tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Creo, or similar; Understanding of mechanical testing and prototyping processes; Strong knowledge of material properties, manufacturing methods, and system integration; Comfortable working directly on the shop floor alongside technicians; Ability to travel ≈25%

Nice to have

Robotics or automation experience

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents; 401(k) with 100% company match, up to 6%; 20 days paid time off; Parental leave; Paid sick leave; Wellness or gym stipend; Learning and development support; Equity/Bonus